Tuesday, October 16, 2007

October 19: SUPPORTING THE KINGDOM

The Bible says in 1 Corinthians 16:2, “On the first day of every week (that’s Sunday), each one of you should set aside a sum of money in keeping with his income, saving it up, so that when I come no collections will have to be made.”
This principle guides the financial support and well-being of most Christian churches. Since churches are voluntary organizations, the giving is entirely voluntary. The premise is that God has enough financial blessing in every congregation to support His work. It shouldn’t be by force or pressure. It should not be by manipulation or guilt inflicted.
As God prospers His children, they in turn set aside a liberal amount to give to God as a love gift and participating gift in building the Kingdom of God. Some give one-tenth of their income, some give more. The verse said “in keeping with his income”, in other words “to whom much is given, much is expected.” That is only fair and keeps the church finances sufficient.
When you go to worship God, you go to worship with your “presence” and your “presents” of money gifts. Both parts are uniquely you. Both parts really represent the depth of your commitment to our Lord and the work of His Kingdom here on earth. And, the people around you in Worship are blessed by both your “presence” and your “presents”.
The truth of the matter of giving is this: A true worship experience of the Living God who gave His Only Son to die on the cross (John 3:16) will cause the people of God to give more liberally than ever before. A Vision of God’s generosity provokes a spirit of grateful giving. Prepare today for Sunday’s worship. Pause right now. Reflect a moment on God’s liberality with you. Plan today for a “right amount” on Sunday. Don’t put it off until Saturday.

“I love your church, O Lord, it is the joy of my life to be a part of
nourishing her and helping her grow in every way. Amen”

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